Claims:1. A method for in-vitro determination of bio-mechanical properties of human skin equivalent using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), said method comprising the steps:
a. obtaining a three-dimensional human skin equivalent;
b. contacting said three-dimensional human skin equivalent with at least one cosmetic formulation or at least one bioactive molecule for a period of time ranging from 24-96 hours;
c. removing said at least one cosmetic formulation or at least one bioactive molecule from said three dimensional human skin equivalent;
d. drying said three dimensional human skin equivalent from step c) to achieve a moisture content of 8-15%; and
e. subjecting the three dimensional human skin equivalent from step d) to AFM, and
f. analysing data generated by AFM of said three dimensional human skin equivalent from step e),
wherein the said method allows for in-vitro determination of bio-mechanical properties of three dimensional human skin equivalent.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said three dimensional human skin equivalent comprises of at least two stratified layers.
3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said three dimensional human skin equivalent comprises keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and a base matrix
4. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein said three dimensional human skin equivalent comprises melanocytes.
5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one cosmetic formulation prevents skin aging, cellulite accumulation, skin pigmentation, or combinations thereof.
6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one bioactive molecule prevents skin aging, cellulite accumulation, skin pigmentation, or combinations thereof.
, Description:As Attached